“There is a sense in which all cognition can be said to be motivated. One is motivated to understand the world, to be in touch with reality, to remove doubt, etc. Alternately one might say that motivation is an aspect of cognition itself. Nevertheless, motives like wanting to find the truth, not wanting to be mistaken, etc., tend to align with epistemic goals in a way that many other commitments do not. As we have begun to see, all reasoning may be inextricable from emotion. But if a person's primary motivation in holding a belief is to hue to a positive state of mind, to mitigate feelings of anxiety, embarrassment, or guilt for instance. This is precisely what we mean by phrases like "wishful thinking", and "self-deception". Such a person will of necessity be less responsive to valid chains of evidence and argument that run counter to the beliefs he is seeking to maintain. To point out non-epistemic motives in an others view of the world, therefore, is always a criticism, as it serves to cast doubt on a persons connection to the world as it is.”
Quote by Sam Harris
Work
This book delves into the relationship between scientific knowledge and moral philosophy, arguing that scientific principles can provide a framework for understanding and evaluating human values. The author examines various ethical theories and scientific concepts to illustrate the potential for a more objective approach to morality. more
Author
Sam Harris is an American author, philosopher, and neuroscientist known for his work on atheism, rational thinking, and the scientific method. Born on April 9, 1967, Harris graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor's degree in cognitive psychology. His writings, including 'Free Will', 'The End of Faith', and 'The Knowledge Problem', have sparked widespread debate around the world. Harris is also the host of several podcasts and television shows, including 'Sam Harris Podcast' and 'Waking Up with Sam Harris'. more